Chapter 14: A Reckoning

POV – JAKE

The stillness of pre-dawn enveloped Jake’s small room in the dojo, where the faintest light of the approaching sunrise barely filtered through the thin curtains. He lay in bed for a moment, relishing the quiet. The room, though modest, was impeccably maintained, with tatami mats lining the floor and walls adorned with simplistic but elegant decorations.

Yawning, he sat up, rubbing his eyes. After a quick wash, he glanced at the modest wardrobe the dojo had provided. A few clothes hung inside, most of them a bit too snug or loose. He usually opted for the dojo uniform, its fabric now soft and familiar.

Today, however, called for something different. He sifted through the limited choices, eventually pulling out clothes better suited for outdoor activities and camping – a sturdy pair of pants and a breathable, long-sleeved shirt.

Jake turned his attention to assembling his pack, most of which he had done the previous evening. The essentials first – water, some rations, a basic first-aid kit. Every item was carefully chosen for utility and necessity.

In the corner of the room, Trixie, his ever-energetic companion, flitted about, nibbling on her breakfast of fruit. Movements were quick and playful, the soft movement of her wings a familiar sound in the quiet morning.

Jekyll, by contrast, was the picture of calm, perched contentedly on the windowsill, watching Jake with his usual quiet observance. There was a sense of contentment radiating from the cut-outs of his disguise.

"Ready for the big day, Trix?" Jake teased as he packed the last of his things. "Or are you planning to spend it chasing after berries?"

Trixie paused her flitting, tilting her head with a playful glint in her eyes. She zipped up to Jake’s face, hovering just inches away. "Emol, emol," she chirped, her eyes sparkling. "And what about you, Jakey? Still need me to shock you awake in the mornings?"

Jake chuckled sourly, he hated being called Jakey, imaginary though it was, he carefully packed his gear. “Thank goodness you’ve stopped that,” he replied with a shudder. “I prefer my morning alarm without a side of static, thank you very much.”

Trixie buzzed around his head in a loop, her playful energy almost tangible. "Emol!" she trilled, which Jake took as a cheeky, "But it sure got you up faster!"

Shaking his head, Jake zipped up his bag. “I’ll take a few extra minutes of sleep over your wake-up calls any day,” he said, giving her a fond look. “Your energy is better spent not frying your trainer.”

Jekyll, who had been watching Trixie with evident disapproval, suddenly puffed up his fake chest and fixed her with a stern look. "Kyuu, Kyuu!" he intoned, as if saying, "How dare you address the master so irreverently!"

Trixie responded by blowing out her cheeks and crossing her eyes in mock defiance.

Jake watched this with a fond smile. “You two really are quite the pair,” he said with a sigh. “Time to go.”

Seeing Jake ready to leave, Trixie flitted over to him landing lightly on her favoured perch. Jekyll leaped off the windowsill perching himself on Jake's opposite shoulder with a hint of satisfaction.

As Jake stepped out of his room, walking down the corridor towards the courtyard, his thoughts drifted to Master Mustard and Honey, their kindness since his arrival at the dojo. They had welcomed him with open arms, provided him with a place to stay, and never once made him feel like an outsider.

He passed by a room that remained closed most of the time. Behind that door, he knew, was the Mustard family's reclusive son, Hyde, Jake had never met him, but he knew of his fondness for coding and that he probably spent most of his time immersed in a computer with his Porygon.

A pang of sadness gripped Jake as he recalled a conversation with Mustard and Honey. They had told him that no missing person’s report matched his description—something they said was common, especially in a bustling city like Wyndon, where they suspected he was from. Honey had offered him a comforting hug, and Mustard had reassured him with kind words, reminding him that he could stay at the dojo as long as he needed.

Their generosity and genuine care often felt overwhelming to Jake. The Pokémon world is really kind in some places, he mused. It was a welcome from the loneliness he had first felt upon his unexpected arrival in this world, and he was deeply grateful for everything they had done for him.

Jake continued down the hallway, the soft light of dawn casting long shadows on the floor. Trixie, perched on his left shoulder, seemed to sense his mood and nuzzled against his cheek gently. Jekyll, more stoic, sat quietly on his right shoulder, his presence now a steady reassurance.

Jake stepped into the dojo courtyard, the first few rays of sun bathing the area in a warm, golden light. He noticed Ciara standing near the edge of the training area, her Kubfu, Kaida, by her side.

He hesitated for a moment, a slight awkwardness in his step. Interactions with Ciara had been few, limited to extremely brief exchanges during training exercises. She was an intense person, often quiet, she seemed completely focused at all times. And truth be told, Jake found her somewhat intimidating – not just in her attitude, but also in appearance. She was striking, dark brown hair pulled back into a high ponytail, accentuating the sharp lines of her face. A fit, athletic build, honed by rigorous training. Skin deeply tanned from countless hours spent under the sun.

Before he could think on what to do, Trixie, the almost literal social butterfly, fluttered off his shoulder. She buzzed excitedly over to the pair. Ciara watched Trixie approach; cautious but not unwelcoming. Kaida, spotting the energetic newcomer, crouched slightly, as if unsure how to respond.

Jake took this as his cue. As he neared, Kaida looked up, noticing Jekyll on his shoulder. The Kubfu’s posture changed, Kaida backed up a bit, body language shifting to one of apprehension, quickly moving to hide behind Ciara's leg, peeking out cautiously. The little Pokémon's eyes darted between Jekyll and Jake with wariness.

"Stay away from Kaida," Ciara's voice cut through the morning air, low and with a distinct, almost American twang. Her words were terse.

Jake stopped in his tracks; a bit taken aback. "That accent... are you from Unova?" he asked, curiosity getting the better of him.

Ciara’s expression hardened. "Did you not hear what I just said? Stay away from Kaida. That means me as well," she replied sharply. Her gaze flicked to Jekyll, wariness in her eyes, though she seemed to be making a conscious effort not to look directly at him.

Meanwhile, Trixie, as oblivious as ever, continued to try to engage with Kaida, emoling cheerfully through Ciara's legs, undeterred by the Kubfu's apprehension.

"I'm just making conversation," Jake said, a hint of defensiveness in his voice. "I've been here a few days, and we haven’t really spoken at all."

"Was that not a hint? I don't want to talk to you," Ciara shot back, her voice cold and dismissive.

"Well, what else are we gonna do? We'll be travelling together for a bit anyway," he pointed out.

Ciara let out a small sigh, her stance softening just a fraction. "Fine, yes, I am Unovan, from Castelia. I grew up on the streets. The Master picked me up," she conceded, her voice lowering slightly. "It's a long story, and I'm not going to tell you anything more."

As she spoke, Ciara's gaze met Jake's strongly, amber eyes holding a certain depth. She sighed, resignedly. "I know about your situation. I'm sorry, it's not easy being abandoned."

Jake was a bit surprised by her acknowledgment of his predicament, though he hadn’t been abandoned exactly, just dropped in the middle of nowhere. For a moment, the barrier she had put up seemed to waver, revealing a glimpse of understanding, maybe even empathy, beneath her tough exterior.

Ciara’s eyes narrowed as she glanced at Jekyll on Jake's shoulder. “Do not take my sympathy for your... situation as acceptance. That Pokémon is dangerous and should not be in the hands of an inexperienced trainer,” she said firmly.

Jake felt a flash of indignation. “That’s not fair,” he countered. “Jekyll is actually really nice. Sure, he’s only nice to me, but that’s beside the point.”

Ciara just looked at him, her expression unchanged. Jake met her gaze, feeling a bit sheepish under her scrutiny. He opened his mouth to object further, but before he could continue their conversation was interrupted by a soft voice.

“Whoever invented mornings sure didn’t consult me,” Siobhan said with a sweet, tired smile, covering a yawn as she joined them. “A bit more sleep would’ve been my vote.” Her vibrant orange hair stood out against the morning light.

Following closely behind her were Jab and Bab, both yawning and rubbing their eyes, clearly in agreement with Siobhan’s take on the early start.

Ciara’s attention shifted away from Jake and Jekyll, giving him a momentary reprieve. He took a breath. He glanced at Ciara, who had now turned her attention to Siobhan, slightly more relaxed.

Jekyll had really got Ciara’s hackles up. He glanced at the Mimikyu as if to ask, What did you do? Jekyll just turned his head and met Jake’s gaze innocently. “Kyu?”

Siobhan moved closer to greet Trixie, who was still trying to engage Kaida with her usual enthusiasm. “Hey, Trixie!” Siobhan exclaimed softly, reaching out to scoop the Pokémon into her arms. Trixie chirped with joy, waggling her wings as she cuddled up, nuzzling Siobhan with a happy wiggle.

The so serious Ciara, seemed to soften slightly around Siobhan. “Make sure you’ve packed enough water,” Ciara advised seriously.

Siobhan nodded, her practical side showing despite her more girlish manner. “And lots of snacks too, right? Can’t have too many of those,” she replied with a light chuckle.

Jake greeted her with a friendly, “Morning, Siobhan,” to which she responded with a shy wave and a faint blush, her eyes briefly meeting his before looking away. She’s nice, Jake thought, cute too, though she takes her time opening up to new people.

Jab and Bab then burst into the courtyard. “Can’t wait to try some of those mushrooms!” Jab declared loudly, grinning.

Ciara just rolled her eyes, ignoring them. Siobhan, however, looked at them with faint amusement. “You do know we’re not supposed to eat them, right? I’m not actually sure how they affect humans.”

“That’s exactly the point!” Bab chimed in with a mischievous glint in his eye. “Who knows? Maybe they’ll make us grow huge or something!”

“I wonder if we’ll start seeing things,” Jab added with a laugh.

“Just don’t go picking any magic mushrooms,” Jake joked with a grin.

Jab and Bab laughed, coming over to greet him with a friendly handshake each. As Jake shook their hands, he mused amusedly that, in this world, some of the mushrooms actually were magical.

Meanwhile, Ciara and Siobhan drifted off to one side, engaging in a quiet conversation. Siobhan occasionally glanced over at Jake; still shy. Ciara, maintaining her serious façade, listened intently to Siobhan, nodding occasionally. The contrast between Ciara's intensity and Siobhan's gentle nature was interesting, but they seemed to get along very well.

Trixie, having wriggled free from Siobhan’s affectionate grasp, was now darting around the courtyard, curiosity leading her in playful loops and dives. Jake just couldn't help but watch her with a smile, thinking how much she loves flying now.

Turning his attention back to Jekyll, Jake decided it might be wise to return the Mimikyu to his Pokéball for now, considering Ciara and Kaida’s earlier reaction. He spoke softly to Jekyll, who seemed to understand, and soon he was safely inside his Pokéball. Jake noticed that the other trainers didn’t seem especially bothered by Jekyll, leading him to wonder if Ciara had a specific reason, perhaps a past experience, for her apprehension towards Jekyll. Kaida’s reaction also didn’t do any favours. Jake resolved that he would have to keep working with Jekyll to try open him up more to meeting new Pokémon. He supposed it was also possible that the other trainers were just not as aware of Jekyll’s true nature.

Master Mustard and Honey soon emerged from the dojo. Honey, a basket in her arms, approached the trainers, with a warm smile she began distributing food supplies.

"Here you are, everyone," Honey said gently. "A few snacks to keep your energy up during the trial. Make sure to eat well and stay hydrated, okay?"

The trainers accepted the food with gratitude, some offering thanks, others just nodding appreciatively.

Master Mustard, standing beside Honey, cleared his throat, commanding the attention of everyone present.

“Alright, students,” he began, his voice steady and firm, “this trial isn’t just about finding ingredients.” He paced a bit, hands clasped behind his back. “Remember the key lessons we’ve talked about—navigating the wilderness, setting up camp, and interacting safely with wild Pokémon. These skills are vital for your journey as trainers.”

He paused, looking at each of them in turn. "You are free to engage in battles with wild Pokémon, but be mindful of you and your Pokémon's safety. This trial is an opportunity to demonstrate the behaviours expected of a Pokémon trainer – respect for nature, for each other, and for the creatures you encounter."

“Good luck,” Master Mustard concluded, his expression softening just a touch. “The trial begins now. Make the most of this opportunity, and show us what you’ve got.”

With those final words, Jake and the other students left the dojo courtyard. They walked through the quiet town, which was still mostly asleep at this early hour. The streets were deserted, with only the occasional rustle of leaves or distant sound of a waking Pokémon breaking the silence.

Jake noticed the Pokémon Centre as they passed by, lights still on, a reminder of the round-the-clock dedication of its staff. Further along, they passed the port of Applinby, or Armor Station. Boats were being readied for the day's fishing, crews moving about with purposeful energy.

As the group reached the fence at the edge of town, they were greeted by a cheerful voice. “Morning, everyone! Ready for an adventure?”

Standing there was Symington, the Pokémon Ranger, unmistakable orange hair under his cowboy hat, with his large, friendly belly.

Symington spotted Siobhan in the group, his eyes twinkling with mirth. “Ah, there’s my favourite niece! Didn’t scare you out of bed too early, did we?” he teased.

Siobhan rolled her eyes, a hint of a smile betraying her amused annoyance. “Uncle, I'm your only niece, and you know I’m not a morning person,” she replied.

Turning to Jake, Symington extended a hearty handshake. “Glad to see you’ve found your feet, lad,” he said. Jake shook Symington’s hand gladly, the bluff man a reassuring presence.

Symington led the group out of town, walking alongside them with his usual cheer. Jake noticed the well-trodden trail underfoot, different from the route he’d taken by the river when he first entered the town.

"So, tell me about this trial of yours!" Symington boomed, his voice echoing with enthusiasm. “The good Ol’ Mayor is always creative!”

"We're off to become mushroom hunters, Symington. Maybe we'll find some that'll make us grow ten feet tall!" Jab said excitedly.

Symington chuckled heartily, patting Jab on the back. "Well, just make sure you don't pick any like that one time I did," he said. "Spent days on the toilet, I did! Not the adventure I'd recommend, let me tell you."

Siobhan flushed, a bit embarrassed by her uncle's story. She shot him a look that was half amused, half exasperated. Jake smiled wryly at Siobhan's reaction; his dad was worse, much worse. Catching his gaze with a shy genuine grin.

Trixie, darting about the group, zoomed up to Symington. "Well, hello there, little one!" he said, delighted to see her. Trixie’s energy seemed boundless as she explored every new sight and sound along the trail.

"I think I know where we should head," Jake said to the group. "I've made this journey before. Pretty sure I was dropped right in the middle of the Forest of Focus. I just followed the river. Probably our best bet to do the same."

Ciara raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure? It's a big area to cover,"

“Trixie was raised in those woods; we can just follow her nose.” Jake gestured at the flying squirrel.

"Sounds like a good starting point to me," Siobhan said. Jab and Bab quickly agreed, their enthusiasm clear.

Reluctantly, Ciara agreed to follow along, probably to stick close to Siobhan. Jake thought she sometimes just liked to object to make a point.

They continued on the trail for a while, Symington regaling them with tales of his experiences as a Pokémon Ranger. Eventually, they reached a point where Symington came to a halt, just past the Fields of Honour.

"This is as far as I go, folks," he said, still cheerful. "Good luck with the trial, and watch out for the Scolipede hive around here. They seem to be a bit touchy at the moment."

At the mention of Scolipede, Jake felt a shiver run down his spine. He had almost forgotten the encounter with the Venipede and the monstrous Scolipede. He glanced at Jekyll's Pokéball, a twinge of relief that the Pokémon was inside, resolving to remain vigilant.

"Thanks for the heads up, Symington," Jake said, managing a weak smile, trying to keep his voice steady.

Symington waved them off with his usual good humour. "Take care out there!"

The rising sun cast long, golden rays through the thickening canopy of trees, dappling the path ahead. The terrain gradually shifted from the well-trodden dirt of the town outskirts to a more rugged, natural path. The trail meandered, slowly fading, following the gentle curves of the river—a reverse image of Jake’s earlier journey into town.

Jake glanced at his companions, noting the varying degrees of interest. Siobhan walked close by, enjoying the scenery. Ciara remained quiet, her gaze fixed ahead, occasionally speaking to Siobhan. Jab and Bab just talked and chuckled, pointing at the various Pokémon and sights along the way.

As the group progressed, the trail led them through the now familiar open plains, an expanse that seemed to stretch under the wide sky. The plains were dotted with herds of Bouffalant, their massive forms grazing peacefully. Jake observed these imposing creatures, the students keeping their distance, aware of their reputation for being territorial.

He noted how the Bouffalant effectively served as a natural buffer zone, or more like 'bouffa' zone, he supposed, between the town and the greater wild area. He wondered whether their presence was a coincidence or by design to keep the more dangerous elements of the region at bay.

As they cautiously skirted around the edges of the fields, maintaining a respectful distance from the Bouffalant, Jake could see the trail gradually fading into the distance. Ahead, a dense canopy of trees marked the beginning of the marshy forest.

Breaking the silence, Jake remarked, "Last time I was here, I had to cross a marshland further up. It was... well, let’s just say it wasn’t the most pleasant experience."

Siobhan turned to him, curiosity lighting up her face. "A marshland? That sounds challenging. Were there many wild Pokémon there?"

Jake nodded. "Yeah, quite a few, Chewtle and Drednaw for days. I’ve already seen way too many of those. It was a bit of a struggle, honestly."

Siobhan laughed softly. "Oh, definitely. You've got to watch out—those Pokémon can be pretty territorial."

Ciara listened quietly, her expression unreadable, while Jab and Bab seemed more wrapped up in their own private jokes.

"So, do you and your friends get to leave town much?" Jake asked, trying to sound casual.

Siobhan gave him a slightly puzzled look, as if the question had caught her off guard. “Not really,” she replied, still a bit shy but warming to the conversation. “I don’t know much about what it’s like on the mainland, but leaving on your own without Pokémon isn’t easy. We’re pretty isolated.”

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Jake nodded, encouraging her to go on.

"Sometimes our families take us on trips to Grimnore or Timeston, usually by boat," Siobhan added. "But it's mainly trainers and rangers who venture further inland. They're the ones who travel around the most."

Jake mulled over this; back home humans had the liberty to traverse almost any terrain at will. Sure, there were dangerous spots, but rarely anything as inherently prohibitive as what Siobhan described. It struck him how different life was in a place where one's ability to explore and travel was so closely intertwined with Pokémon.

Here, it seemed, humans had adapted to a reality where venturing beyond familiar grounds without the aid of Pokémon was not just challenging but often unfeasible. It was an interesting cultural shift. Most of the people he had encountered so far appeared to accept this balance without question. They lived in a world where mutual dependence with Pokémon was the norm, an integral part of their culture and lifestyle. This acceptance and adaptation to such a unique way of life was both intriguing and admirable to Jake. It was a testament to the resilience and adaptability of humanity, how they could embrace such a drastically different mindset when shaped by their environment.

Jake knew that not everyone in this world would feel the same. Like any society, there were bound to be differences and exceptions. But so far, the people he'd met seemed content with their way of life.

Seizing the opportunity for a more meaningful conversation. "So, what was it like growing up in Applinby?"

Siobhan answered. "It's kind of a small place, as I said, we’re pretty isolated from the rest of Galar. We don't get many strangers. I went to the primary school in town with Jab and Bab. Mustard is really kind to us; he gave me my Bulbasaur when I decided to become a trainer."

"That really is kind of him," Jake said, impressed. "And why did you want to become a trainer?"

Siobhan’s face brightened with a dreamy look. “Applinby’s lovely, but it’s small. I want to explore more of the world, see what's out there. It's a simple reason, but it's mine."

Jake nodded, understanding. "That's an excellent reason. Exploring and experiencing new things is what it's all about." Siobhan smiled gratefully at him, a faint blush on her cheeks.

Jake pressed on, “So, the Pokémon League must be a big deal here. Do you watch it?”

"Absolutely! When it's on, it's like Applinby comes to a standstill. Everyone gathers at the pub to watch it on TV. It's a real community event."

"That sounds amazing," Jake remarked. "Did you ever get to meet Leon, the Champion?"

“I did meet him, but I was quite young. He wasn’t Champion then, so I didn’t really know who he was,” she said. “He got a Charmander from Honey, kind of like how I got my Bulbasaur.”

Ciara, who had been quietly listening, added her thoughts. “I never met Leon. He’s undoubtedly a strong trainer, but I’ve heard he didn’t complete Mustard’s trials. It’s a bit ironic, isn’t it? Someone who so easily gets lost becoming a Champion.”

Jake nodded, intrigued. “Kind of makes you wonder, doesn’t it? Must’ve taken some serious skill to make up for that.”

He gave Ciara an appreciative smile, glad she was joining in. Encouraged, he tried, “About Unova, I’d really like to—”

Ciara held up a hand, cutting him off, but her tone was less harsh than before. “Look, Jake, I appreciate the chat, but I’m not really open to discussing my past. It’s nothing personal.”

Jake let out a small sigh. Siobhan glanced at him; her apologetic expression paired with a slight shrug—she seemed familiar with this.

The trail gradually faded into a more natural path as Jake and his fellow students delved deeper into the wilderness. The ground underfoot became increasingly marshy, prompting them to take a brief pause. They each pulled on a pair of wellies, preparing for the soggy terrain ahead.

Jake's pace slowed. We must be getting close to the Scolipede hive, he thought, keeping an eye out for any telltale signs. "Trixie, keep an eye out, okay?" he whispered.

POV - CIARA

She had believed those chapters closed; the nightmare left far behind. Castellia, with all its shadows, was supposed to be a distant memory, no longer a burden for her to bear.

Her gaze occasionally drifted to Jake, who was leading the students down the path to the Forest of Focus. He seemed a decent person, thrown into a challenging situation. To Ciara's critical eye, it was obvious that Trixie absolutely adored him. She admired that, even envied it, albeit grudgingly.

It was Jake's partnership with Jekyll that complicated her feelings. While she respected his ability to connect with Trixie, Jekyll's presence stirred memories and fears she preferred to keep buried.

Ciara’s thoughts drifted back to a conversation she’d had with Master Mustard shortly after his battle with Jake. "Master Mustard," she had begun cautiously, "Jekyll. What kind of Pokémon is he?"

Mustard paused, setting down a bowl of Pokémon food before turning to Ciara. “Ah, Jekyll… the Mimikyu, eh?” he said, his tone thoughtful. “Mimikyu are quite the rare ones, Ciara. Not many folks know much about them, and there’s a reason they’re sometimes called the ‘lonely Pokémon.’ You don’t often see them in the wild, and even less so with trainers.”

Leaning against the wall, Mustard crossed his arms, his expression contemplative. “You know, since that battle, I’ve been doing a bit of digging myself. Truth be told, I’m still piecing it all together. The accounts I’ve come across are fascinating, but not always what you’d call comforting. Mimikyu are a rare encounter for trainers, and there’s a reason tales about them are few and far between. Some trainers who’ve crossed paths with a Mimikyu… well, they’ve simply vanished. It only adds to the mystery surrounding these Pokémon.”

He sighed. "Mimikyu are beings grappling with a profound insecurity, and this can manifest in rather... unsettling ways. It’s a challenge, a real test of a trainer’s resolve. Not many are equipped to handle such a Pokémon."

Ciara felt a chill at his words. “Unsettling?” she echoed; tinged with unease.

Mustard nodded; his expression serious. “Aye, it’s a curious thing with Mimikyu. There’ve been cases where trainers form long partnerships with these Pokémon, sometimes spanning years. But over time, those trainers can find themselves overwhelmed, losing their grip on reality. It’s a tragic turn, but not unheard of, especially with ghost-types.”

“Forming and maintaining a bond with a ghost-type is a path fraught with challenges, both emotional and mental. It takes deep patience, understanding, and an unwavering commitment—qualities that are rare, indeed.”

Mustard then looked directly at Ciara; his expression thoughtful. “But I’ve got to say, Jake’s done a remarkable job with Jekyll. It’s quite rare, what he’s managed. You see, starting with Trixie, a Pokémon with similar characteristics to Pikachu, is often a recipe for disaster with a Mimikyu.”

"But Jake, he's used his bond with Trixie as an anchor for Jekyll’s darkest fears, as an example of what could be, as motivation. It's a delicate balance, using one relationship to nurture another, but so far, he looks to be handling it well.’

Mustard’s gaze drifted slightly, as if lost in thought. “Of course, that’s how it appears to us now. There’s no telling if it will always be this way. Such dynamics are ever-evolving. But it’s Jake’s path to walk. I’ve seen trainers and Pokémon separated, and I’m not one to tear a trainer from their Pokémon when I see a genuine connection. It’s a great tragedy when that happens, a failure on many levels. It breaks the trainer, and even more so, the Pokémon.” He sighed. “Mimikyu are sad creatures, Ciara, to force one to give up on its hope would be a cruelty."

Ciara had heard Mustard’s words, even understood them to a degree, yet her nights did not. Fragments of memory. A twisted grin. A sinister laugh. A feeling of being watched. Pursued by terror. A grudge. A childhood folly. She shuddered.

Siobhan's gentle voice broke through her reverie. “Are you ok?”

Ciara turned to face the orange-haired girl. "Yeah, I'm alright," she replied with a slight nod, her voice steady. "Just lost in thought for a moment."

Shaking off these thoughts, Ciara refocused on the path ahead. She reminded herself that she was here for a reason, to prove her capabilities and to rise above her past. She couldn’t let old fears hold her back, not now.

A rustling in the nearby bushes snapped her to attention. A surge of anticipation coursed through her. Perfect, she thought. A battle. Just what I need to clear my head.

Without hesitation, she moved towards the sound, her hand already reaching for a Pokéball. "Kaida, let's go," she said, releasing her Kubfu into the open.

Jake's voice echoed behind her, slightly uneasy for some reason. "Wait, Ciara! Be careful!"

But Ciara was already in motion, her focus. This was her element, where her clarity and purpose were sharpest. Kaida, sensing her determination, took a battle stance, ready to engage.

POV – JAKE

This has got to be the oddest Pokémon I've seen so far he thought. His mind briefly wandered back to the Foongus he had encountered in the woods on his first day in this world, which was now challenged for the top spot on his list of bizarre Pokémon encounters.

He observed the Lickitung's wide-set eyes, which seemed to convey a sense of bewilderment, as if the creature was perpetually lost in its own world—or more likely, just lost in general. The Pokémon’s round, pink body was large enough to reach up to his chest, though who knew with how far that tongue extended.

He couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for the Lickitung. There it stood, tongue lolling out, probably just waiting for some unsuspecting bug Pokémon to wander by. It seemed almost innocent in its own peculiar way. Not exactly the fearsome wild Pokémon encounter you'd expect.

It felt to a little odd being the one initiating the battle. Like they were the ones intruding. He supposed that Pokémon, much like animals, were more hesitant to come near larger groups of people.

There had been a certain awkwardness to it that Jake hadn't anticipated. In the games, it was quite straightforward, just walk around in the tall grass and battle. But in the real world of Pokémon, they did not just automatically battle you. Are we supposed to just... attack one? Ask it to battle?

The Lickitung, initially just standing there with its tongue outstretched, surprised as Ciara charged in. Jake watched; a bit taken aback by her aggressive approach. Well, that escalated quickly.

“Kaida, Rock Smash!” Ciara commanded; her voice sharp with focus.

Kaida lunged forward; her fist aimed with precision. Jake knew that a human, a hit like that, especially on a vulnerable spot, would be devastating. But the Lickitung, though lacking in agility, cleverly used its tongue to swat Kaida's fist away, turning it into a protective barrier.

Jake couldn't help but be impressed. "Huh, so it's not just for show," he murmured to himself.

Lickitung, now fully engaged in the battle, seemed to be enjoying the challenge. It initiated what seemed to be a Wrap attack, its tongue extending swiftly in an attempt to ensnare Kaida.

From the sidelines, Jab's voice suddenly rang out like a seasoned football commentator, "And here comes the Wrap attack, a classic Lickitung move!"

Bab added his analysis, "Notice how it uses its tongue, not just for reach but also as a defensive barrier. Clever strategy there."

Jake leaned over to Siobhan, whispering, "That thing's tongue... it's like a weapon in itself."

Siobhan nodded. "Yeah, it's Lickitung's main tool in battle. You’ve got to watch out for it."

Thinking about the Pokédex description, Jake wondered if the Lickitung’s saliva had properties similar to a Komodo dragon’s, potentially harmful with contact. He was not curious enough to try for himself.

“Kaida, Scary Face!” Ciara instructed next.

Kaida tried her best to look fearsome, but the effect was more cute than intimidating. Jake chuckled quietly, but Jab's voice boomed, "Ah, the old Scary Face tactic! But will it work on Lickitung?"

Bab responded, "Well, it’s more adorable than scary, but it seems to have thrown Lickitung off its game!"

Lickitung, momentarily caught off guard, quickly recovered and retaliated with a Supersonic attack. High-pitched sound waves filled the air, disorienting everyone nearby.

"Ah, a sonic attack from Lickitung! I can no longer hear myself think, but this could turn the tide," Jab exclaimed excitedly.

Ciara, undeterred by Lickitung's move, shouted her next command. "Kaida, Focus Energy now!"

Kaida seemed to centre herself, closing her eyes for a moment. Her muscles tensed, an aura of concentration enveloped her. Despite the cacophony of sound waves from the Lickitung's Supersonic, Kaida remained unfazed, focus unbroken.

Bab noted, "Excellent use of Focus Energy there. Maintaining composure under pressure."

Jake was impressed. I didn’t know Focus Energy could be used like that. Smart move, he thought.

"Now, Brick Break!" Ciara shouted.

With a surge of energy, Kaida delivered a powerful, precise strike. The impact was so forceful that it sent the Lickitung reeling backward.

Jab's voice rose in excitement, "And that's a game-changer! A critical hit!"

As Lickitung lay defeated, Jake turned to Siobhan, impressed. "Well, I guess that's one way to win a battle," he remarked.

Siobhan smiled, watching Ciara recall Kaida. "Yeah, she's incredible. She takes after Master Mustard in a lot of ways. Her strategy, her focus... it’s almost like watching him in action."

Jake's curiosity piqued. "Do you guys have tournaments or something between the students?"

"Oh, we have monthly tournaments at the dojo," Siobhan replied, her eyes lighting up at the mention. "Ciara pretty much always wins. She's tough to beat."

Jake noticed a hint of pride in her voice as she added, "I've won a couple of them too, though it's been a while."

Jake raised an eyebrow. "Oh, really? Should I be watching out for you then, Siobhan?"

"You might be surprised. Don't underestimate me, Jake." Siobhan laughed.

Her expression then softened, becoming more thoughtful. "But you know, I think Ciara is probably quite wary of you. You might be the first serious challenger she's had around her own age. She really wants to be the best, you see."

Jake pondered this, glancing over at Ciara, who was recalling Kaida back to her Pokéball. "Aiming for the top, huh? That’s ambitious."

"Yeah," Siobhan agreed. "But she's determined, and if anyone can do it, it's her. Anyway, I should go check on her." With that, she trotted off towards Ciara.

Jake stood still for a moment. He reflected on his own journey and the path he found himself on since joining the Master Dojo. Initially, his goal had been simple: get his bearings, gain experience, learn how to train Pokémon effectively. The idea of being 'the best' hadn't really crossed his mind; his aspirations were more practical, more immediate.

But hearing about Ciara's determination, her clear-cut goal of being the best, ignited something in Jake. It wasn't a desire for fame or the thrill of victory that spurred him; it was the need to fulfil a more personal mission. He wanted to meet one of the Legendary Pokémon, capable of finding a way to communicate with his family back on Earth. That goal had always been at the back of his mind, a distant hope that had increasingly seemed almost too grand to pursue.

The more he thought about it, the more he realised that competing in the Pokémon League could be a step in that direction. Developing a strong team, proving his skills as a trainer – these were not just badges of honour; they would allow him to be in a position to achieve his goals.

Master Mustard was a former Champion, obviously with significant influence and freedom. The respect and autonomy Mustard commanded were not just due to his past title but also because of the power and knowledge he had amassed over the years. If I could achieve even a fraction of that, Jake mused, I might stand a chance at meeting a Legendary Pokémon.

The landscape around them teemed with life. Chewtle and Corphish colonies were frequent sights, their figures dotting the marshland. Trixie, who Jake kept out of her Pokéball as she disliked being confined for too long, darted about, winning battles with her agility and type advantage. Jekyll, content in his Pokéball, was on Jake's mind; he knew keeping him confined wasn't a long-term solution.

Ciara remained relentless, actively seeking out confrontations with wild Pokémon. Her battling style was aggressive, a reflection of her training under Master Mustard. Siobhan, on the other hand, engaged in battles with a more tempered eagerness. Her Bulbasaur, was particularly suited to fighting the Pokémon of the wetlands, which gave her a distinct edge. Siobhan's approach was not quite as intense as Ciara’s, but still bore hallmarks of Mustard's teachings.

The weather gradually shifted, with clouds turning a sombre grey and a light drizzle beginning to fall. The sounds of Croagunk and Poliwhirl echoed across the marshland, blending with the soft patter of rain.

Jake struck up conversations with Siobhan, learning about her interest in Pokémon nutrition. She spoke passionately about the diets of Pokémon and how it influenced not only their battle performance but their overall well-being. Her knowledge on the subject was comprehensive, and as they walked, Jake learned about different berry types, nutritional supplements, and even homemade Pokémon food recipes.

Jab and Bab, though less inclined towards battling themselves, provided constant entertainment with their running commentary on each skirmish. Their insights were surprisingly detailed. They were avid followers of the Pokémon League. In a conversation with them, Jake had subtly inquired about trainers like Gloria or Ash, but they seemed to be unaware of them, which made Jake curious about where he was on the timeline of events.

The light drizzle continued as Jake and his fellow students made their way down the trail, chatting casually. Trixie, always the energetic scout, zipped ahead, her movements full of playful curiosity.

Suddenly, she darted back towards Jake, Emol! she cried, her tone unusually serious. Jake noticed the change immediately. "What’s up, Trixie?" he asked.

Emol! Trixie pointed her paws towards a hill in the distance.

At first, the sounds were just faint echoes, barely audible over the rain. But as they climbed the muddy hill, the noises grew clearer—clinks and clashes cutting through the drizzle. A Pokémon battle. A big one, by the sound of it.

Below them, in a natural clearing surrounded by dense foliage, a battle was raging. Jake's eyes widened at the sight: around twenty Pawniard, their metallic bodies glinting in the dull light, were arranged in a disciplined, almost military formation. At their rear, a commanding Bisharp stood, its eyes scanning the battlefield with cold, calculated precision, directing its troops with sharp movements.

Opposite the Pawniard, a more chaotic cluster of Venipede darted about, their spherical bodies rolling at breakneck speed. Whirlipede charged wildly, spinning like tops. Dominating the scene was the now all-too-familiar sight of a Scolipede—towering, monstrous, her segmented body moving with a surprising grace that belied her size. Barbed legs struck the ground with force, sending splatters of mud flying into the air.

Nearby, a broken willow tree marked the battleground. Trixie flew back to Jake, eyes wide, recognition in them; she seemed to know this place.

Jake, watching the intense battle below, turned to Siobhan. “What do you think we should do?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Siobhan, eyes locked on the clash, replied, “It looks like a territorial battle. Wild Pokémon can be fiercely protective of their turf. Bisharp, especially, are known for trying to establish little empires.”

Jake considered this. “Is this common?” he asked, intrigued.

Siobhan nodded. “Yes, wild Pokémon hunt for food, of course, but territorial disputes are also an important natural instinct for many. Bisharp are particularly notorious for it.”

Ciara, who had been quietly observing, added coolly, “Unless they’re taken down by an internal plot.”

Jake recalled the Pokédex entries for this species. It mentioned that Bisharp were ruthless, often embroiled in internal disputes, sometimes even civil wars. He thought of Kingambit, the ultimate evolution of Bisharp found in Paldea and likely elsewhere too. Must take an exceptional Bisharp to become a Kingambit. I wonder how rare they are?

Ciara interrupted his thoughts. "We can't intervene. The numbers are overwhelming."

Her voice was steady as she continued, "But as trainers, it's our duty to help Pokémon in need. We should stay alert for any stragglers."

Siobhan nodded, already reaching into her pack for potions and antidotes. “We should be ready, just in case.”

As they watched, the Bisharp maintained its position at the rear of battle line, its gaze cold and calculating. The Pokédex mentioned that Bisharp liked to use Pawniard as expendable soldiers, and this one seemed to confirm that trait.

Suddenly, Jake’s gaze locked onto the Scolipede, a flicker of recognition crossing his face. “That’s the same Scolipede we encountered earlier,” he whispered to Trixie, who emoled in understanding. Jake couldn’t help but wonder if their previous battle had somehow influenced this clash.

The Pawniard, despite their smaller size, were holding their own against the Venipede and Whirlipede, gradually wearing down the formidable Scolipede. As aggressive as ever, the Scolipede fired Poison Stings and charged through their formation. However, the Pawniard’s steel typing rendered them resistant to the poison attacks, and they were only really knocked to the ground without any real damage, though a bit muddy.

The Bisharp’s eyes glowed with intense focus, and Ciara recognised the move. “Laser Focus,” she said. “It’s waiting for the perfect moment.”

Its sharp, calculating gaze never left the Scolipede, coiled like a spring.

The Scolipede reared up, massive body casting a looming shadow, preparing to launch its Poison Tail attack. The Pawniard troop braced themselves, their formation scattering into a looser one

In a flash, the Bisharp sprang into action, a blur of silver against the green backdrop of the marsh. With terrifying calculation, it slashed at the now exposed neck of the Scolipede.

Jake's eyes widened as the Bisharp’s claws, glowing ominously, sliced through the Scolipede's exoskeleton, a knife through butter. Green blood, acidic and potent, sprayed from the Scolipede's severed body, sizzling as it made contact with the ground and nearby Pawniard. The corrosive substance ate away at the marshland, leaving steaming patches of decay in its wake.

Siobhan gasped audibly, hands flying to her mouth in horror at the sheer ruthlessness of the attack.

Ciara watched with a stoic expression, but even she closed her eyes briefly, perhaps in silent acknowledgment of the brutal reality they were witnessing.

Jake watched, his heart pounding, as several Pawniard writhed in agony, steel bodies visibly corroding under the toxic assault. The acidic blood ate through their metallic exteriors, leaving some immobilised, once sharp and gleaming forms now tarnished and pitted.

The air was thick with the sounds of chaos—the dying hisses of the Scolipede, the clanging of Pawniard scrambling to escape the corrosive spray, and the ominous, victorious call of the Bisharp.

The Bisharp uttered a satisfied “Bish,” standing tall amidst the turmoil, its eyes reflecting a cold satisfaction. With a methodical shake of its claws, it flicked off the remnants of green blood, its metallic skin unscathed.

The remaining Venipede and Whirlipede, stunned by the sudden turn of events, quickly burrowed into the ground, retreating as fast as they could. The Bisharp, commanding and unyielding, signalled its troop to pursue the fleeing Pokémon.

As the Pawniard troop vanished into the underbrush, Jake stood there, grappling with the raw brutality he had just witnessed. The Bisharp's ruthlessness was unlike anything he had seen before. He had read about the nature of some Dark-type Pokémon in the Pokédex, but witnessing such ferocity in reality was jarringly different. He hesitantly turned to Siobhan and Ciara. "Did you... did you know about this?"

Siobhan's voice was shaky, as if she were on the verge of tears. "My uncle told me stories... about how it can be in the wild. But hearing about it and seeing it are two different things," she whispered.

Ciara, noticing Siobhan's distress, wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close. Her tone was cold, distant. "Bisharp are dangerous," she said flatly. "They show no mercy when they gain power. But it’s common for them to fall to their own kind or meet a fate like that Scolipede. Power breeds enemies."

Jake looked down at Trixie, who seemed to mirror the sombre mood, her usual vibrancy dimmed. He hugged her close. "I'm sorry you had to see that," he murmured. Trixie licked his cheek in response, a small gesture of comfort amidst the grim reality.

Even Jab and Bab, usually the source of light-hearted banter, were unusually silent, their expressions sombre and thoughtful.

Seeking some understanding, Jake asked Ciara, "Does this kind of thing happen in the Pokémon League?"

Ciara shook her head. "Very rarely. Fans don’t want to see death matches. There are underground tournaments where this happens, but they’re illegal and widely condemned. It used to be more common in the past, but now, anyone caught participating in such events faces severe consequences, including lifetime imprisonment and confiscation of their Pokémon."

Ciara, still maintaining her stoic attitude, gave Siobhan a gentle shake. "Get yourself together," she said, firm but not unkind. Siobhan nodded, wiping away her tears, trying to regain her composure.

Jake watched Siobhan with concern. He felt a wave of sadness himself but remembered his mother’s advice about dealing with difficult situations. Process it, but don’t let it consume you, she had said. He decided to compartmentalise, and reflect later.

Ciara took charge. "We should help the ones left behind," she stated decisively, stepping cautiously into the aftermath of the battlefield.

The mood was sad but determined as Jake and the others navigated the scarred battlefield. The ground beneath their feet was uneven, marred by the corrosive aftermath of the Scolipede's blood. Patches of earth still hissed and bubbled, a grim reminder of the deadly encounter that had just taken place.

The sky, overcast and grey, seemed to reflect the gravity of the situation. The gentle drizzle that had been a soothing presence earlier now added to a melancholic atmosphere, casting a damp veil.

Trixie flew alongside Jake, her usual playful demeanour replaced by a focused seriousness. They moved cautiously, searching for any survivors. Fallen Pawniard were scattered across the battlefield, steel bodies dulled and pitted where the acid had taken its toll.

Amid the destruction, Trixie suddenly let out a sharp cry, drawing Jake's attention. She fluttered down towards a small, curled-up shape partially hidden under a damaged fern. It was a Venipede, body tightly coiled in fear, trembling visibly.

Jake hurried over, heart heavy at the sight of the frightened creature. The Venipede seemed physically unharmed, but the battle had clearly left its mark. He knelt beside it, trying to offer some comfort, but the Venipede remained tightly wound, body shaking.

Jake knelt beside the trembling Venipede, unsure how to offer comfort to the traumatised creature. Each time he moved closer, the Venipede's body flashed more intensely, desperately using Defence Curl. The move created a rhythmic glow around its coiled form, as it tried to protect itself from any further harm.

Trixie, floating nearby, “Emol, emolga,” softly called out as if to say, “Hey, it’s Trixie. I remember you.” Jake sensed the intention behind her emoling, a soft attempt to reassure the scared Pokémon.

As he watched Trixie's efforts, realisation dawned on Jake, Trixie had told him of her adventure, and though he really only got the gist, her Venipede impression had been memorable. This was the same Venipede that had been hurt by Jekyll during their first encounter.

Overwhelmed by its continuous use of Defence Curl, the Venipede's began to slow, body glowing faintly as it finally succumbed to exhaustion and passed out. Jake sighed and gently stroked the small creature, whispering, “I’m sorry for your loss.” The world around them was quiet, save for the soft sound of rain and the distant murmurs of his companions tending to the other Pokémon.

Trixie gazed at Jake with a sad, pleading expression, silently urging him to do more. Nodding in understanding, Jake reached into his pocket and pulled out a Pokéball. He recalled Mustard’s words when he had handed them out, "You never know."

With a gentle tap Venipede’s was engulfed in a red light and pulled inside. The capture was swift and uneventful, unlike the chaos that had preceded it.

Trixie hugged his neck for comfort, gratitude, and relief. Jake let out a sigh. Three Pokémon in one week...

Jake held the Pokéball containing the Venipede in a quiet, sombre moment. Rain fell softly around them, sounds of healing in the background. What should have been a triumphant, joyous moment was instead overshadowed by a bitter reality of nature—and, it seemed, Pokémon.